KUCHING: About 70 participants attended a community seminar on autism awareness organised by the Mental Health Association Sarawak (MHAS) Kuching Branch in conjunction with Autism Awareness Month.
The PROSPER 2.0 Seminar, held at the Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Training Room today (Apr 25), focused on promoting understanding, acceptance and early intervention for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
The programme is part of the year-long PROSPER 2.0 initiative supported by the Sarawak Social Development Council (MPSS) under the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development, aimed at delivering accessible and evidence-based mental health education to the public.
Paediatrician Dr Liyana Huda from Sarawak General Hospital (SGH) led the session, addressing common myths and facts about autism while highlighting its neurodevelopmental nature and related challenges, including sleep issues among children.
Participants, comprising parents, teachers, healthcare professionals and representatives from government and non-governmental organisations (NGOs), actively engaged in discussions and shared experiences, reflecting growing multi-sectoral interest in autism awareness.
The seminar emphasised the need to move beyond stigma and recognise the unique strengths and abilities of individuals with autism, while also underscoring the importance of supporting parents and caregivers.
Attendees were introduced to available support services such as low-arousal environments, speech therapy and behavioural interventions, as well as the importance of early identification and intervention to improve long-term outcomes.
The session also clarified misconceptions surrounding persons with disabilities (PWD) status, noting that registration is not a label of limitation but a pathway to access appropriate educational support and tailored learning approaches.
Parents and caregivers were encouraged to seek early assessment if developmental concerns arise, with services available at government facilities including health clinics, Child Developmental Centres in Kozi Square and Petra Jaya, as well as MENTARI Petra Jaya and MENTARI Sentosa.
Meanwhile, MHAS Kuching Branch Chairman, Dr Ng Boon Seng called for stronger community involvement in mental health advocacy.
“We need more individuals to step forward through volunteering, advocacy or simple acts of understanding.
“Together, alongside organisations like MHAS and other NGOs, we can build a kinder and more compassionate society,” he said.
The seminar carried the message ‘Autism – they are different, not less’, highlighting that with acceptance, early support and inclusive opportunities, individuals with autism can lead meaningful lives.
